Foreign body giant cell reaction to silicone oil presenting as a salmon-patch conjunctival lesion

Abstract

Purpose: To describe a case of foreign body giant cell reaction to silicone oil that presented as a salmon-patch conjunctival lesion. Observations: An elderly female with prior retinal surgery and oil tamponade was referred for a salmon-patch lesion in the conjunctiva. Biopsy revealed multiple vacuolations and foreign body giant cells in the substantia propria, consistent with a foreign body reaction to silicone oil. Conclusion and importance: Silicone oil can elicit an inflammatory reaction in the conjunctiva that could mimic a neoplasm. Excessive leakage of oil into the subconjunctival space should be avoided to prevent this complication.

Keywords

• Foreign body giant cell reaction
• Salmon-patch
• Silicone oil
• Vitrectomy
• Conjunctival lesion